The field of candidates running to lead the Saskatchewan NDP has narrowed to three.
Erin Weir, a Regina economist, announced today he is withdrawing from the race and throwing his support behind Saskatoon doctor Ryan Meili.
The other two candidates are MLAs Cam Broten of Saskatoon and Trent Wotherspoon of Regina.
Weir said during the recent all candidates’ debates it became apparent that he and Meili shared similar views on some issues. He said he wanted to support a progressive candidate who could be the next leader.
He also acknowledged he was running behind the other candidates.
About 11,000 people who hold NDP memberships are eligible to vote in the leadership contest that culminates in a March 9 convention in Saskatoon.
However, some have already sent in their preferential ballots.
“It’s only a minimum of ballots that have been cast,” Weir said when asked why he wouldn’t have made his decision sooner, or during the convention.
Meili said he was pleased to accept Weir’s support and believes many party members are still undecided.
“This gives us a chance to connect to Erin’s supporters,” he said.
